| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 35 mins – 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 128 | 0.3g | 0g | 33g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 32g | 1g | 0.3g | 0g |
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There are few things more satisfying than making Aratiles Jam in my own kitchen. This delightful recipe not only brings out the natural sweetness of the aratiles fruit, but also offers a unique sense of comfort and nostalgia that is hard to come by. For those who may not be familiar, aratiles (also known as kerson fruit or Muntingia calabura) is a small, cherry-like fruit native to tropical regions. Its vibrant flavor is reminiscent of a delightful blend of mulberries and cotton candy, making it perfect for a jam.
A Taste of Tradition and Elegance
Growing up with a rich tapestry of Creole and French culinary influences, I have always been passionate about preserving the traditional methods while embracing new flavors. This Aratiles Jam marries the rustic simplicity of Creole cooking with the refined elegance of French patisserie techniques. This balance is what makes this jam truly special, delivering a depth of flavor that is both familiar and captivating.
Health Benefits
Not only is this jam irresistibly delicious, but it also offers some surprising health benefits. Aratiles are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which are great for boosting your immune system. They’re also loaded with antioxidants that help protect your body from free radicals. Combined with a modest amount of sugar and a touch of lemon juice, this jam becomes a surprisingly healthy addition to your breakfast table or afternoon tea.
Versatility in Pairings
Aratiles Jam pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Spread it on buttery croissants, use it as a topping for fresh beignets, or even incorporate it into your favorite crepe recipe for a burst of tropical flavor. It’s a versatile accompaniment that also works beautifully with cheese platters or as a glaze for roasted meats. If you love berry-based jams like strawberry or raspberry, you’ll certainly find this to be a refreshing addition to your pantry.
If you’re intrigued by fruits from around the world, you might also enjoy trying some other tropical delights such as mango chutney or guava jelly. Each of these preserves celebrates a unique flavor and can open up a world of culinary possibilities.
This Aratiles Jam recipe is a testament to the joy of blending traditional techniques with exotic ingredients, and it’s something I hold close to my heart. Whether you’re indulging in it for its taste or its health benefits, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home too. Enjoy the journey of making and savoring this special jam!
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What You’ll Need
- 4 cups aratiles (Muntingia calabura), cleaned and destemmed
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup water
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Method
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Step One
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the cleaned and destemmed aratiles with water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Step Two
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer until the aratiles are soft and start to break down, about 10-15 minutes. Use a potato masher or a spoon to help break down the fruit as it cooks.
Step Three
Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice to the mixture. Stir well to combine. Increase the heat to medium and bring to a boil again, stirring frequently to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step Four
Continue to simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens to your desired consistency. This may take approximately 30-45 minutes. You can test for doneness by placing a small amount of jam on a cold plate and checking if it gels.
Step Five
Once the jam has reached the desired thickness, remove the pot from heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some headspace. Seal the jars with sterilized lids.
Step Six
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or processed in a water bath for longer shelf life.
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